A golden chapter was added to the glorious history of Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), functioning under the aegis of ICAR, New Delhi; as Indian veterinary scientists who worked with the world veterinary community celebrated the joy of global freedom from the deadly disease of rinderpest by unveiling a memorial pillar on 2nd June, 2012 at its mother campus located at Mukteswar, Uttarakhand. On this occasion, a one-day workshop entitled “Emerging infectious and transboundary animal disease; Challenges for 21st century” was also organized.

The Chief Guest, Dr. R.M. Acharya said that the present day is being celebrated as a great historical event in the history of IVRI as we have succeeded in eradicating the rinderpest- the dreadful disease that has plagued the animals since 4th century. Remembering the laudable contributions made by the scientific community, he said that we can’t forget the contribution of eminent scientists and workers who worked hard with exemplary zeal and commitment to achieve this extremely difficult goal. In veterinary, the Mukteswar campus is considered as mother campus of IVRI, with particular reference to Veterinary Virology, as most of the veterinary viral vaccines have been developed by this Institute. He suggested that IVRI in times to come should take care of the research on animal health care for whole animal sector of India. He further advised to disseminate our knowledge to all other animal health related organizations globally and nationally, including the SAUs and other ICAR institutes and; should work for development of new generation vaccines so that we can effectively combat with the emerging and remerging diseases.

The Guest of Honour, Dr. Gaya Prasad congratulated all the scientists, students and administrative staff for their creditable efforts that helped in eradication of rinderpest. He said that Indian scientist have proved themselves globally through the success of this dream endeavour. He also gave his words of thanks to all the scientists and staff of Mukteswar campus and praised their efforts for making this event historical.

In his presidential address, Prof. M.C. Sharma thanked all the eminent scientists and others who worked relentlessly to achieve this goal and arrived here to grace and witness this historical ceremony. He informed that IVRI has developed more than 50 vaccines, 100 diagnostic kits, 40 therapeutic and 30 animal nutrition technologies. He informed that that research work is going on in IVRI to develop effective vaccines against PPR, FMD, Brucellosis, Anthrax, Swine fever and Leptospirosis, so that we can control and eradicate these dreadful diseases. Prof. Sharma congratulated all the scientists of IVRI for their commendable work including publication of more than 300 research paper annually, more than 50% of which appeared in International journals. He also gratefully acknowledged the whole hearted support received from Dr. S. Ayyappan, Secretary, DARE & Director General, ICAR and Dr. K.M.L. Pathak, Deputy Director General (A S), ICAR, New Delhi, in general, and for this historical event, in particular.

Dr. A.B. Pandey, Station-In-Charge, Mukteswar campus, IVRI welcomed all the dignitaries and appreciated the work done by scientists to achieve this target. He also added that the research work is going on to eradicate yet another dreadful disease of small ruminants-PPR.